Jim Ray

Jim Ray, 68, Sturgeon Lake, died Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at his home. Jim was born on January 27, 1945 in Champaign, Illinois. He grew up in Illinois and at the age of 18 entered the United States Army where he served for 15 years. Jim was an Army Veteran whom served three tours in the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple Heart. After losing his vision, Jim became very involved with the State Services for the Blind of MN Business Enterprises Program where he served on the Board of the Operator Management Committee as President and Vice President and was also trained to operate and fix vending machines. He operated Jim Ray Vending for the last 17 years in Fergus Falls at the Regional Treatment Center and most recently at the MN DOC in Moose Lake. Jim worked very hard throughout his life and truly loved his family. He also enjoyed visiting with friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and a sister.

He will be lovingly remembered by his life partner of 27 years, Julie Virkus of Sturgeon Lake; his son: Jeremiah (Hannah) Ray of Moose Lake; and a grandchild expected in November.

Visitation will be held in Hamlin-Hansen-Kosloski Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 29, 2013 from 1:00 until the 3:00 service with a time of sharing memories of Jim. Military Honors will follow the service.

The family would like you to know that anyone can donate an perennial plant that will be used for the Memorial Garden in Jim's memory at their home.